Saturday, February 21, 2015

Successful Parenting 101

A father can be proud of his sons actions.Last night I got a phone call from my son Liam asking if I could take one of his very drunk and sick work mates home. No taxi was prepared to take the lad home, which is really a crime in itself. The campaign of not drinking and driving is great but if taxis won't take home those who have had too much or are sick make me worry about the potential consequences of such actions. Yes I can commiserate with drivers where their vehicles have vomit to be cleaned up, but surely some social responsibility should be made. I have to say I was initially not happy, and I was going to say something about this matter with Liam. I was all prepared to give him one of my "fathers not happy with you" speeches.HOWEVERWhen I arrived he and another work colleague were with this poor chap. Liam helped him into our car, buckled him into his seat belt, ensured the sick bag was in place for emergencies and then sat in the back with his friend. On our way to the friends home Liam checked on his welfare, ensured his airway was clear, while at the same time giving me directions to his friends residence. Once there Liam got him inside the residence, he rang the parents (who were actually celebrating their wedding anniversary) and waited for them to return home. Liam told me that I could go home, that he'd stay with his friend and that he'd get a lift back to his work party later. The lads father was thankful to Liam for his actions.This morning when I picked up Liam to take him to work I found out some other details. His friend has a medical condition which with the effect of alcohol and being sick could possibly have been catastrophic had he been left alone. From a family perspective I know what this is like. My wife's mother was an alcoholic and she passed away from chocking on her own vomit while alone in her flat. So my sons decision to stay with his friend rather than feel his obligation was over by getting the lad home was the correct one, even if it meant his missed most of his social outing.As a parent I cannot be prouder of my sons actions. It was a work function/get together (not sure of exact details), yet Liam was the only one who stood up and showed he cared.Thank you Liam you have made me feel so proud of being your father.